The 2010 Atlantic Season did not impact the VI directly but many areas suffered extensive damage from landslides and flooding. Photo File: VINO

In a release issued by the Department of Disaster Management (DDM) today, it states that while the Virgin Islands was fortunate not to suffer direct hits from major storms this year, it is important to still keep the guards up.

“While it is a time to reflect on and be thankful for our good fortune, we need to maintain guard against complacency. Earthquakes, floods, epidemics, and other hazardous events, including hurricanes, can strike at any time. Many remember that Tropical Storm Zeta formed on December 29^th, 2005, and Hurricane Lili formed on December 20^th, 1984,” the release states.

According to NOAA the 2010 Atlantic hurricane season was one of the busiest on record. In contrast, the eastern North Pacific season had the fewest storms on record since the satellite era began.

In the Atlantic Basin a total of 19 named storms formed – tied with 1887 and 1995 for third highest on record. Of those, 12 became hurricanes – tied with 1969 for second highest on record. Five of those reached major hurricane status of Category 3 or higher, the NOAA states.

Several areas in the Territory suffered from extensive flooding during the Hurricane season. Photo: VINO

These totals are within the ranges predicted in NOAA’s seasonal outlooks issued on May 27 (14-23 named storms; 8-14 hurricanes; 3-7 major hurricanes) and August 5 (14-20 named storms; 8-12 hurricanes; 4-6 major hurricanes). An average Atlantic season produces 11 named storms, six hurricanes and two major hurricanes.

Meanwhile, on June 1, DDM launched the hurricane campaign – “Stay Alert, Stay Alive, This Hurricane Season.” The Department again partnered with all local media to provide guidance for residents, through public information and education, as they made their preparations for what was predicted to be an extremely active Hurricane Season.

The DDM says it will continue to highlight the importance of having disaster plans and evacuation procedures for homes, schools, workplaces, recreation areas and entertainment venues.

“All residents need to know the location of all Emergency Shelters, and all businesses need to have Business Continuity Plans. We should never let our guard down. Being impacted is not a matter of “if” but “when.” Remember, it is better to prepare and prevent, rather than to repair, and repent,” the local release states.